Optimizing Potato Processing with Higher Efficiency, Traceability, and Gentle Handling
Deprez®, a Belgium-based leader in production logistics optimization, is proud to announce the world premiere of its Big Bin Potato Handling system at Interpom. With over 40 years of expertise in providing innovative solutions for bin handling in the potato processing industry, Deprez® introduces a revolutionary approach that transforms bin handling and bulk storage into a cohesive, efficient operation.
The Big Bin Potato Handling system is designed to integrate bins that hold over 3 tons of potatoes into the production process, merging years of specialized bin handling experience from the fresh potato market with advanced methodologies for processing larger volumes. This integrated solution provides significant benefits, particularly for potato processors aiming for higher operational efficiency and maximum potato value through advanced sorting and grading.
Innovative Advantages Built on Experience
Big Bin Potato Handling offers several advantages, starting with enhanced control over storage. The ability to store potatoes in large bins allows for meticulous oversight of their quality, size, and condition. With this system, potatoes can be sorted more precisely and graded based on a comprehensive set of characteristics, laying the foundation for future advancements in sorting technology.
Another major benefit of this innovation is improved traceability. Large bins make it possible to trace potato batches more accurately compared to bulk tanks, ensuring higher levels of precision in batch management. This feature becomes especially critical for food safety and quality assurance.
The system also provides gentle handling for the potatoes. By moving bins rather than individual potatoes, there are significantly fewer drops during handling, minimizing bruising and maintaining quality. This method optimizes space by utilizing building height and prevents the heavy stacking of potatoes found in traditional bulk storage.
Deprez®’s Big Bin Potato Handling is a proven concept scaled for greater efficiency. By handling larger bins—up to 5,000 liters—the production process is optimized without needing to increase the number of machines or the handling speed, thereby significantly boosting hourly throughput. This is an evolution of Deprez®’s expertise in fresh potato packaging, now brought to larger-scale operations.
Addressing Industry Challenges
The potato industry, particularly the French fry sector, is experiencing rapid growth due to rising global demand and the popularity of fast food. Annual sales of frozen potato products are increasing by around 4%, driving the need for higher yields and more efficient processing methods. The Big Bin Potato Handling system addresses these needs by quadrupling bin volume capacity from 800 kg to over 3 tons, thereby supporting increased production efficiency.
Additionally, the fresh market’s demand for greater traceability has led to operational challenges for processors handling large volumes. Deprez®’s innovation bridges this gap by combining flexibility and high-capacity processing. As the industry navigates climate change, regulatory pressures, and volatile energy costs, efficient and sustainable production solutions are vital. The Big Bin system is designed to support these evolving needs, contributing to a resilient and adaptable potato sector.
Company Legacy and Innovation
Deprez®, headquartered in Kortemark, has a storied history of leading technological advancements in the potato processing industry. Their pioneering work in automatic bin handling for the fresh potato market two decades ago—covering receiving, washing, sorting, and packaging—has set a global standard. Today, Deprez® continues to bring cutting-edge solutions to clients worldwide, from frozen fries to potato chips. Recognized as “SME of the Year 2022” on both provincial and national levels, Deprez® has a proven track record of award-winning innovation and excellence.
Meet Deprez® at Interpom at Stand 118 to witness how Big Bin Potato Handling can elevate your potato processing operations.
